If your teen is longing to become a modelling star or you know your little one has what it takes to be a child model, then this is something you should definitely look into further. Modelling may or may not be right for your son or daughter – but you will never know unless you […]
Published 15th October 2025
If your teen is longing to become a modelling star or you know your little one has what it takes to be a child model, then this is something you should definitely look into further.
Modelling may or may not be right for your son or daughter – but you will never know unless you begin to dig a little deeper.
Many famous faces started out as child or teen models – think Demi Moore, Cara Delevingne and Billie Piper, for example!
But no one wants to launch their offspring headlong into the modelling industry without carrying out some research first.
Models Direct has been a leading UK agency for over 35 years now.
In that time, we have seen huge changes and worked with some of the best-known brands, businesses and organisations in the world.
So, before you go any further, why not peruse our top five tips for parents of aspiring models?
If you are then still interested, fill in our form and send us some photos of your child or teen and we will be in touch to discuss it further…
1. Consider whether modelling is right for your child
Do you believe your youngster could shine for the camera? You know your offspring better than anyone else in the world and you are just the right person to decide whether they might be suited to modelling work. It can be tiring and hard at times, but it can also be great fun and extremely rewarding! Think about whether your child or teen can interact well with other young people and adults and if they can listen to and follow instructions.
2. Choose a reputable agency
Here at Models Direct we always advise joining an agency. Representation from the right agency will ensure the safety and well-being of a young model and their parents at all times. But you must think carefully before you sign on the dotted line. There are a lot of unscrupulous individuals and companies out there – including some that claim to be agencies but are not! Select an agency that like Models Direct is a legal, government-registered entity, regularly inspected by the Department for Business, Energy and Industry Strategy (BEIS). Also, choose an operation that has experience of working with children and teens. And, make sure you read lots of feedback from other parents!
3. Encourage your child to become confident
If your teen or child is interested in modelling, then they may well already enjoy lots of other extracurricular activities, such as drama, sports or music. Hobbies like this can really help them to become confident in social and professional situations and to shine out in a crowd – so if they don’t currently take part in anything, why not consider encouraging them to? These soft skills are not only great to mention on a modelling e-portfolio, but will also stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.
4. Flexibility is the key
Child and teen modelling is extremely competitive and assignments are incredibly varied. It is important not to assume your youngster’s journey will progress in any particular way. Always take expert advice, try to be open to a variety of jobs and make sure your agent understands your availability and the areas your son or daughter is interested in. A good agency understands you will turn jobs down from time to time but if you never accept any or fail to turn up on the day of a booking, they will be much less inclined to continue to put your youngster forward for work.
5. As a parent, you need to work hard too!
Child and teen modelling is teamwork – agencies like us need you to do your part! Parents or guardians need to ensure e-portfolios are kept fresh and up to date with recent photos and information. They must be proactive in liaising with us over the arrangements for each assignment and ensure their youngster arrives at bookings with plenty of time in hand.